The Federal Government has pledged to collaborate with Niger State to develop its tourism potential, aiming to boost economic growth and create employment opportunities for residents.

Minister of Art Culture Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa gave the assurance when she received a delegation from Niger State led by the member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Sa’idu Musa Abdullahi in her office.

The lawmaker was accompanied by the General Manager, Niger State Tourism Cooperation, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed.

The lawmaker informed the minister that, they paid the visit in order to discuss the tourism potentials of Niger State which he said was enormous and can drive its economic development drive in line with President Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda.

Abdullahi emphasised the rich cultural heritage of Bida, describing it as the headquarters of Nupe-speaking people worldwide and Nigeria’s first UNESCO city for crafts and art.

He noted that, despite this recognition, the city’s culture has not been given sufficient visibility and said the federal ministry’s support would be critical in promoting it to a wider audience.

He said the Bariki Festival, a long-standing tradition dating back to the colonial era, is one of the state’s major cultural events that could be elevated to an international level.

He explained that the festival, originally held to pay homage to colonial administrators, has continued after independence and is celebrated twice a year.

Abdullahi expressed a desire to revamp the festival, turning it into a globally recognized event that could generate economic benefits and create jobs for locals.

He said, “I know how passionate my governor can be, but with the ministry involved, this project becomes bigger than just us discussing it with him. This collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Culture, my office, and the tourism board will ensure he is fully on board.

“That is why we have come to seek this partnership. I assure you, if we implement it the way we envision, we will be grateful for the opportunity.”

The lawmaker also highlighted the role of collaboration between federal and state authorities, explaining that working with the ministry would give the project greater legitimacy and encourage full participation from the Niger State government.

He stressed that such a partnership would help “showcase the richness of Nupe culture” while aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda.

On her part, the Minister welcomed the initiative, describing Niger State as a key partner due to its strategic location and significant tourism assets, including Zuma Rock.

She said the ministry plans to formalize the collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), which would guide joint initiatives to promote the state’s culture and attractions.

She added that projects such as the Hawan Sallah and Hawan Bariki festivals would be prioritized under the partnership.

“This collaboration is part of the New Renewed Hope Cultural Renaissance Project, which seeks to strengthen federal-state cooperation in tourism development,” she said.